A recent Channel 5 documentary about Stephanie Slater, the estate agent who was kidnapped in 1992 by a man posing as a ‘buyer’, was a reminder of the importance for agents to maintain a “lone working policy”, according to the Guild of Property Professionals.

Paul Offley, the guild’s compliance officer, said that, given the nature of the estate and lettings business, it is highly likely that an agent will be required to work on their own at times.

“This could be in the office, on a new homes site, viewings, valuations and property inspections to name but a few. While incidents are extremely rare, safety is of the utmost importance and there should be a policy in place that ensures agents are safe when working on their own,” he added.

Offering some guidance regarding what could be included in the policy, Offley said: “When working in the office alone, agents should always keep the door locked and only allow entry to expected visitors who have made an appointment. There should be a sign on the office door that clearly states, ‘by appointment only’.

“Also, make it appear as if you are not in the office alone by hanging a coat over a chair, turning on the PC at an adjoining desk or placing a drink on another desk to make it look as if it is occupied.”

According to Offley, when going to a property alone, agents should always know who they are going to meet and whether that person will be alone.

“It is important to know the number of people you will be meeting, along with their names addresses and contact details,” he said. “If possible, this information should be verified. Whether working in the office alone or going to see a client at a property, everyone should have a key contact that knows where you are going, how long you will be, and who you are meeting. This should happen every occasion.”

Offley added that carrying a personal alarm should be considered, and agents shouldn’t be drawn into giving away too much personal information.

“If there is something that doesn’t feel right about the situation, reschedule, and attend at a later date with a colleague,” he said. “Don’t push yourself into a situation that you are not comfortable with.”

He concluded: “Considering the vast number of appointments completed each day, each week, each month and each year, such incidents are rare, but it is important that all members of the team remain vigilant and look out for each other.

“Working together we can help keep these incidents from happening.”